FRESNO, CA - A celebration is in order as we tip our hats to an esteemed industry leader! Dennis Parnagian, Owner of Fowler Packing Co., was one of three individuals awarded an honorary doctorate from Fresno State University (FSU). The recent recognition is a reflection of Dennis’s dedication to California ag and continued support of the university.

“Receiving the Honorary Doctorate from FSU’s Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology was very special to me because of the love I have for agriculture in California and the role it plays in feeding our nation,” Dennis shares. “Receiving this recognition is both humbling and inspiring in my support of ag and Fresno State University.”

The honorary doctorate—awarded on behalf of the California State University system and Fresno State—recognizes Dennis Parnagian for his extraordinary achievement and excellence in significant areas of human endeavor that embody the CSU system’s objectives and ideals, GV Wire reported. A loyal philanthropic partner and volunteer of Fresno State, Parnagian has served on numerous Fresno State volunteer committees, such as the Fresno State Foundation Board of Governors, the President’s Campaign Leadership Council, the President’s Commission on the Future of Agriculture, the Jordan College’s Institute for Food and Agriculture Advisory Board, and the Kenneth L. Maddy Institute Board of Directors.

“My father was my biggest mentor and influencer, and although he passed away in 1980, his teachings are stronger than ever in me today,” Dennis says when I ask him about some of the influential people guiding his journey. “During my career, I’ve learned more lessons than I can recount, but a few of the most valuable are to stay true to yourself and your mission. Don't be sidetracked by the ‘quick buck’ that diverts you from your long-term goals. And, never, ever, compromise your ethics for anything; Your reputation and name are the only things of value you have.”

Overcoming the challenges that have led to these lessons, Dennis notes that his most significant accomplishment is the completion of Fowler Packing’s succession plan, governance, and estate planning. “This was completed long ago in preparation to usher in our next generation of leadership, which we did in 2017,” he explains.

With a successful career and flourishing company headlining his journey, Dennis continues to be a vocal advocate for California agriculture.

“The opportunities and challenges in ag are stronger today than ever before,” he shares. “As the Family Farm disappears, multi-national corporations are taking a bigger stake in ag, which erodes much of the values and morals embodied in family businesses. At the same time, opportunities exist for the younger generations to farm with much more sophistication and efficiency than in the past.”

Looking to the future, the industry will continue to turn to longstanding leaders like Dennis to set an example for true success and industry advocacy. 

Congratulations, Dennis, on this well-deserved recognition!